These 'super agers' could help UW find key to keeping memory sharp
DAVID WAHLBERG
Updated
Mary Frantz, 100, right, joins an exercise class at Capitol Lakes retirement community in Madison. She is a "super ager" — someone 80 or older with superior memory for their age — taking part in a UW-Madison study about what sets super agers apart from others of advanced age.
Most days, Mary Frantz can be found exercising in the pool, going to aerobics class, reading, shelving library books, attending committee meetings, enjoying social hour or playing Scrabble with friends.
Mary Frantz, exercising during a class at Capitol Lakes, was an internal medicine doctor at Monroe Clinic for 53 years. She didn't retire until she was 87.
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Elaine Gundlach, center left, plays mahjong at the McFarland Municipal Center with, from left, Jo Gehl, Rosanne Cowan and Gloria Novotny. Gundlach attributes her status as a super ager to being involved in many activities.
Elaine Gundlach talks with Ginny Kominiak as she sets up a game of mahjong. A retired mental health nurse, Gundlach said volunteering has helped her stay busy and mentally sharp.
Mary Frantz, right, with Capitol Lakes wellness manger Emily Ingalls, participates in exercises classes and does her own workout daily in the pool. “You have to take care of what you’ve got," she said.
Mary Frantz, 100, right, joins an exercise class at Capitol Lakes retirement community in Madison. She is a "super ager" — someone 80 or older with superior memory for their age — taking part in a UW-Madison study about what sets super agers apart from others of advanced age.
Elaine Gundlach, center left, plays mahjong at the McFarland Municipal Center with, from left, Jo Gehl, Rosanne Cowan and Gloria Novotny. Gundlach attributes her status as a super ager to being involved in many activities.
Mary Frantz, right, with Capitol Lakes wellness manger Emily Ingalls, participates in exercises classes and does her own workout daily in the pool. “You have to take care of what you’ve got," she said.
Mary Frantz, exercising during a class at Capitol Lakes, was an internal medicine doctor at Monroe Clinic for 53 years. She didn't retire until she was 87.
Elaine Gundlach talks with Ginny Kominiak as she sets up a game of mahjong. A retired mental health nurse, Gundlach said volunteering has helped her stay busy and mentally sharp.
